Pelion

Portaria is a very popular year-round destination. It’s the first village you will pass through from Volos, on your way to the ski centre. You will find luxury hotels, traditional hostels, restaurants and cosy tavernas, coffee shops, bars, and shops selling souvenirs and other traditional folk-art items.

Makrinitsa offers great views of Volos City and the Pagasetic Gulf. It’s a traditional village and among the most visited destinations in the area. See the renovated grand houses, walk on the narrow stone-paved alleys, stop by the elaborate fountains shaded by supercentenarian plane trees. There are several art cafes and galleries you can visit, if you’re interested.

Zagora is Mt. Pelion’s most populated village, with a view to the Aegean Sea. Visit the centuries-old church of Agios Georgios in the central square, and the Public Library, founded in the 18th century, with a large variety of rare books. Make sure you taste and buy some of the local delicious spoon sweets, jams, and liqueurs, made from fruits and nuts grown in the area’s orchards.

Tsagarada is located further south on the east side of the mountain. Sip your coffee at Agia Paraskevi square, by the huge plane tree, believed to be a millennium old! Don’t miss the arch bridge as you exit the village; the masonry is impressive. You can also buy mushrooms and the local top-quality chestnuts.

Vyzitsa is a beautiful village with traditional cobblestone alleys, renovated traditional grand houses, spots of luxuriant greenery, and elaborate stone-built fountains. Go hiking towards nearby picturesque Argyreika Village, and the seaside Kala Nera Village. Try also the quality jams and hand-made pasta prepared by local ladies, and get some back home with you.

Milies’ history and fame are connected with Moutzouris, the picturesque 19th century steam train. The route starts at Ano Lechonia Village, ends at Milies, and traverses a beautiful lush forest. The service runs from spring to early autumn. Make sure you visit the early 18th century Church of Pamegiston Taxiarchon, in the village square, where you’ll see some remarkable post-Byzantine icons and murals.